Covid-19, Global Health, and Human Rights

Stella M. Britt, Portland State University
Alana Carrasco, Portland State University
Teresa Barto, Portland State University
Mary Silfven, Portland State University
Brenna Bird, Portland State University
Hailey Modzelewska, Portland State University
Teresa Campos-Ortiz, Portland State University

Reference for abstract:

United Nations. (2021, February 24). Pandemic recovery Presents historic opportunity to ensure human rights for all: Guterres | | UN NEWS. Retrieved March 01, 2021, from https://news.un.org/en/story/2021/02/1085562

Abstract

Covid-19 has presented challenges of equity since the onset of this virus and the infiltration of the infection into communities around the world. This research aims to understand the distinct impact that Covid-19 has had globally in terms of (in)equity, human rights, and violations therein. Is globalization the root cause of both the spread of Covid-19 and the prevention of equitable distribution of vaccines to protect all human lives on Earth? What can be done when human rights violations are disguised as the protection of public health? It is well established that some countries and peoples are exploited and colonized regarding public health, but Covid-19 is exacerbating these political imbalances and threatening democracy especially in areas that are already vulnerable. The pandemic offers an opportunity to take note of the inequalities that exist globally and push forward to create a new path that takes human rights more seriously, where all actions henceforth prioritize human rights which includes human health. For this to occur, all territories must act in solidarity. This will take a unified action plan where all countries (particularly wealthier nations) must collaborate to pull resources to reach a more equitable future. Moving forward with a shared goal of protecting global human rights would involve a centralized infrastructure, dedicated worldwide staff, shared measurements, continuous communication, and mutually beneficial actions for the betterment of human rights everywhere which will make all the difference in sustainability.

 
Apr 8th, 11:14 AM Apr 8th, 11:19 AM

Covid-19, Global Health, and Human Rights

Covid-19 has presented challenges of equity since the onset of this virus and the infiltration of the infection into communities around the world. This research aims to understand the distinct impact that Covid-19 has had globally in terms of (in)equity, human rights, and violations therein. Is globalization the root cause of both the spread of Covid-19 and the prevention of equitable distribution of vaccines to protect all human lives on Earth? What can be done when human rights violations are disguised as the protection of public health? It is well established that some countries and peoples are exploited and colonized regarding public health, but Covid-19 is exacerbating these political imbalances and threatening democracy especially in areas that are already vulnerable. The pandemic offers an opportunity to take note of the inequalities that exist globally and push forward to create a new path that takes human rights more seriously, where all actions henceforth prioritize human rights which includes human health. For this to occur, all territories must act in solidarity. This will take a unified action plan where all countries (particularly wealthier nations) must collaborate to pull resources to reach a more equitable future. Moving forward with a shared goal of protecting global human rights would involve a centralized infrastructure, dedicated worldwide staff, shared measurements, continuous communication, and mutually beneficial actions for the betterment of human rights everywhere which will make all the difference in sustainability.